In a thrilling encounter, Kaizer Chiefs fought back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Magesi FC in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday at Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Mduduzi Shabalala was a hero for the Soweto giants, scoring a brace, while Wonderboy Makhubu and Edmore Chirambandare scored for Magesi.
As expected, Nasreddine Nabi made a handful of changes, preserving the energy of key players like Gaston Sirino, Wandile Duba, and Samkelo Zwane for the upcoming blockbuster clash against Mamelodi Sundowns. Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Mfundo Vilakazi, and Njabulo Blom took their places and were entrusted with the task of securing a vital victory.
MAGESI’S EARLY OPENER
Magesi had a busy spell in the first five minutes as Amakhosi sought to secure an early goal in this crucial phase of the match. Nevertheless, it was Clinton Larsen’s team that struck first, taking the lead in the 6th minute with a close-range free header from Wonderboy Makhubu following their first offensive advance.
Chiefs maintained their composure following the concession of a goal, demonstrating a notable sharpness in the attacking third as they quickly sought to equalise.
Chivaviro squandered a golden opportunity to bring the score level with a free header, following a well-placed cross from the young talent Vilakazi, who had skillfully navigated through Magesi’s defence. Elvis Chipezeze skillfully thwarted the attempt.
Vilakazi continued to provide the spark for the Phefeni Glamour Boys with offensive efforts, generating chances and penetrating the opponent’s defensive line; however, the rivals stood firm.
With seconds remaining in the first-half, Mduduzi Shabalala unleashed a powerful shot that seemed destined for the net. However, Chipezeze pulled off a stunning save to deny the 20-year-old. The home side held a narrow 1-0 lead at half-time.
NABI’S KAIZER CHIEFS ATTACK-MINDED CHANGES IN THE SECOND-HALF
Nabi sought to inject more attacking impetus into the game by bringing on Sirino and Ashley Du Preez, replacing Ranga Chivaviro and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo.
Magesi consistently applied pressure, frequently posing a threat whenever they crossed the centre line, aiming to exploit the space left by Chiefs during their offensive manoeuvres.
In the 56th minute, Cross wasted a glorious chance to level the score, heading wide from a pinpoint Sirino cross. In a further bid to salvage the situation, Chiefs withdrew Cross and Maart, introducing Happy Mashiane and Samkelo Zwane.
In the 72nd minute, Chirambandare haunted his former side as he beat Fiacre Ntwari with a stunning free-kick from distance.
However, a few minutes later, there was a moment of magic as Shabalala scored two goals in the space of two minutes. The youngster found the net in the 77th and 78th minutes, bringing his side level and igniting the crowd.
Both teams shared spoils at the end.
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